GCSE again : Classical Civilization or Latin

[janinlondon]

I know there was an old thread on this topic, but I wondered what current thinking is. If the result is likely to be the same in either subject, are we better going for Latin? TIA.

I believe Classical Civilisation is still perceived as Latin Lite, rather like Environmental Science is perceived as Geography Lite. But that's just my perception.

Alpaca - yes, I've heard the "Heroes for Zeros" reference........!

If it's OCR Latin don't you still have to do some classical civ? I had to do language, lit and Classical Civ as part of my GCSE (although it was a bit ago).

I'd do Latin personally (although I am biased). You still pick up a lot about the culture from the translations and reading you do, and you have the benefit of learning the language and all the grammar.

I'd do Latin. It's perceived as a more challenging subject, and the vocabulary is very helpful in later life.

Latin is definitely more useful - the vocabulary is very helpful for picking up scientific and technical language, and learning the grammar is a great base for other modern languages.

Also, it's easy to pick up more knowledge of the classical world in later life by reading, travelling, going to museums etc, whereas learning Latin as an adult requires much more commitment.

Latin makes French, Spanish, Italian etc much easier to learn.

I would do the one the child enjoys most. However if considering a classics degree you can pick up CC at A level without GCSE but not Latin obviously.

As for "Latin light" I don't agree. I know for a fact there are girls at DD's school doing CC A level who hold Oxbridge offers. It is regarded as a facilitating subject by Russell Group.

You are all reinforcing my gut feeling, thanks! DD initially decided on CC and I held my tongue and made supportive noises, but she has now said she wants to change this option to Latin. Didnt want to prejudice her (too much!) with my own unique ideas about Latin. Am secretly chuffed. (Well not so secretly as this is an internationally accessible forum.....)